Your utilities take up a large portion of your budget. This especially true if you live in an older home. However, you can free up your budget and save hundreds of dollars per year by reducing your utilities. There are several ways that you can cut down on your utility usage. Wouldn’t you love taking all those savings and putting them into better use?
Get a Smart Thermometer
You rely on your HVAC system a lot. It also uses more energy than anything else in your home. You can reduce your HVAC usage by getting a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats work in a way that is similar to programmable thermostats. However, smart thermostats can learn your schedule and automatically make changes based on your patterns.
For example, your smart thermostat can sense when you are away. It will set itself to an an energy efficient mode. You can also use an app to make a manual adjustment.
Use Dryer Balls
You can use dryer balls to reduce the drying time. You may not have to use a fabric softener if you use dryer balls. This will help you save even more money.
Replace Your Light Bulbs
If your current light bulbs are worn out, then you should replace them with LED lights. LED light bulbs will require a bigger upfront investment. However, they will help you save money over time by reducing your energy use. They can also last for several years.
Home Upgrades
You can cut down on your utility usage by making a few upgrades. If you have an old roof, then you may want to consider getting it replaced. Foam roofing requires easy maintenance and a faster and cleaner roofing job. Finding someone that does residential roofing can make your home more energy efficient. Old roofs are more likely to leak air. That is why your HVAC system may be forced to work harder. A new roof will reduce air leakage.
You may also want to replace the old windows in your home. New windows are energy-efficient. They can reduce the cooling and heating load. Additionally, new windows can help you stay comfortable. They can eliminate draft. They can also reduce the amount of sunlight that comes into your home during the spring and summer months.
You do not have to keep paying high utility bills. You can save money by making a few home upgrades. You can get a new roof and windows. You can also get a smart thermometer. Additionally, you can use dryer balls and replace your old light bulbs with LED light bulbs.